Background & Purpose

Many municipalities have struggled to ensure consistent access to medical expertise in their care facilities. This change aims to provide more flexibility to meet patient needs.

The Decision

The parliament approved the new law, which gives municipalities the freedom to hire doctors while keeping the regions responsible for overall medical support.

Does this affect you?

  • Municipal healthcare patients: Patients in municipal care may experience better access to medical expertise and more consistent care.
  • Municipalities: Municipalities gain the authority to employ doctors directly to better manage their local healthcare staffing.

In Practice

  • Municipalities can choose to hire doctors directly if they believe it improves local care.
  • The regions still have a legal duty to ensure medical support is available, regardless of whether a municipality hires its own doctor.
  • The new rules will be implemented starting August 1, 2026.